Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has announced it will seek legal advice on its options following the Premier League's handling of an independent commission's findings against Manchester City. The airline, City's principal sponsor since 2009, expressed concern over the league's communication of the findings. Etihad stated it was not contacted or consulted during the commission process, despite being a key partner of the club. The airline reaffirmed its support for Manchester City and its longstanding partnership with the club.
The Premier League revealed on Tuesday that Manchester City had used "sham" commercial contracts as part of schemes to inflate revenue and understate costs by over £900 million ($1.2 billion) over nearly a decade. The league's findings led to Etihad Airways criticizing the handling of the case, citing a lack of clarity and transparency. The airline also expressed concern over selective disclosure of information, which it claimed had created damaging implications for Etihad despite not being named in the published decision.
Etihad Airways "categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication" that it was involved in improper commercial arrangements with Manchester City. The airline stated that the Premier League's public communication of the findings had harmed its reputation. In response to Etihad's concerns, a Premier League spokesperson said they would not be commenting on the airline's statement. Manchester City have denied any wrongdoing and intend to appeal the commission's conclusions.
The independent commission's findings have significant implications for Manchester City, with the club facing potential penalties and reputational damage. Etihad Airways emphasized its commitment to protecting its interests and seeking legal advice on available options. The airline's statement highlighted its concern over the Premier League's handling of the case and its impact on Etihad's reputation.
Manchester City's long-standing partnership with Etihad Airways has been a key aspect of the club's branding and sponsorship strategy. The airline's decision to seek legal advice reflects its commitment to defending its reputation and interests. Etihad's support for Manchester City remains unwavering, with the airline stating it stands with the club, its supporters, and its wider Etihad community.
The Premier League's findings against Manchester City have sparked a heated debate about financial fair play and governance in English football. Etihad Airways' response to the findings highlights the complexities and challenges of navigating complex regulatory frameworks. The airline's decision to seek legal advice underscores the potential consequences of the Premier League's actions for sponsors and partners.
As Manchester City challenges the commission's conclusions through available processes, Etihad Airways will continue to monitor the situation closely. The airline's commitment to protecting its interests and reputation is clear, and its decision to seek legal advice reflects its proactive approach to managing the fallout from the Premier League's findings. Key stakeholders will be watching the developments closely, as the implications of the case extend beyond Manchester City and Etihad Airways.
Key points
- Etihad Airways seeks legal advice on options after Premier League finds Manchester City used "sham" contracts.
- Premier League's findings against Manchester City have significant implications for the club and its sponsors.
- Etihad Airways reaffirms support for Manchester City despite concerns over Premier League's handling of the case.
